Alfa-D 0.25Mcg Tab 10’s-Potential Overview:

Brand Name: Alfa-D
Generic Name: Alfacalcidol
Active Ingredient(s): Alfacalcidol

For the General Public:

Uses:
This medicine is commonly used to treat conditions caused by low levels of calcium, such as osteoporosis, rickets, and hypoparathyroidism. It works by increasing calcium absorption in the body.

• Dosage:
Take one tablet daily, with or without food. Always follow the instructions on the packaging or as prescribed by your doctor.

• Possible Side Effects:
Some common side effects may include nausea, headache, or dry mouth. If you experience anything unusual, contact your healthcare provider.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue or dizziness
• Serious (Less Common) Side Effects:
  • Hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels)
  • Severe allergic reactions

• Important Information:

• Dosage Instruction:
  Take one tablet daily or as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Usage Instruction:
  Can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing.
• General Information:
  • Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Alfacalcidol or any of its ingredients.
  • If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before use.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose.

• Drug Interactions:

• Interactions with Other Medications:
  May interact with calcium supplements, digoxin, and thiazide diuretics.
• Interactions with Food:
  Avoid excessive intake of calcium-rich foods.

Regulatory Approval & Manufacturer:
Approved for calcium-related deficiencies by relevant regulatory bodies.

Antidotes:
In case of overdose, discontinue use and contact emergency medical services immediately. Supportive measures and symptomatic treatment are recommended.

For Pharmacists:

Medicine Name: Alfa-D 0.25Mcg Tab
Brand: Alfa-D
Active Ingredient(s): Alfacalcidol

Indications:
Indicated for the management of calcium deficiency conditions such as osteoporosis, rickets, and hypoparathyroidism.

Pharmacodynamics:
• Mechanism of Action:
Alfacalcidol is a vitamin D analog that is converted in the liver to calcitriol, which enhances calcium absorption in the gut and regulates calcium homeostasis.

• Pharmacological Effects:
Improves calcium and phosphate balance in the body, aiding in bone health.

• Receptor Binding:
Binds to vitamin D receptors, enhancing gene expression related to calcium absorption.

Pharmacokinetics:
• Absorption:
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration; peak plasma concentration occurs within 8-12 hours.

• Distribution:
Distributed widely in the body, particularly in the liver and kidney.

• Metabolism:
Metabolized in the liver to its active form, calcitriol.

• Elimination:
Excreted primarily in bile and urine.

• Half-Life:
Approximately 3 hours for Alfacalcidol; the effects last longer due to active metabolites.

• Bioavailability:
High oral bioavailability.

• Time to Peak Concentration:
8-12 hours post-dose.

• Effect of Food:
Food does not significantly affect absorption.

Dosage and Administration:
• Adults:
One tablet (0.25 mcg) daily or as directed by a physician.

• Pediatric:
Dosage adjustments may be required; consult a pediatric specialist.

• Special Populations:
Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.

Contraindications:
• Known hypersensitivity to Alfacalcidol or its excipients.
• Hypercalcemia or evidence of vitamin D toxicity.

Warnings and Precautions:
• Use with caution in patients with renal dysfunction or cardiovascular conditions.
• Monitor calcium levels regularly to avoid hypercalcemia.

Drug-Drug Interactions for Pharmacist:
• Potential interactions with digoxin, calcium supplements, and thiazide diuretics.

Drug-Food Interactions for Pharmacist:
• Excessive calcium intake from food may increase the risk of hypercalcemia.

Adverse Reactions:
• Common:

• Nausea, dry mouth, and headache.
  • Serious:
• Hypercalcemia, severe allergic reactions, or arrhythmias.

Therapeutic Effects:
• Enhances calcium absorption and improves bone mineral density.

Storage:
Store at 15-30°C, in a light-resistant container.

Packaging:
Available in blister packs containing 10 tablets.

Clinical Considerations:
• Pregnancy Category:
Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus.

• Lactation Category:
Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider.

• Pediatric Category:
Dose adjustments required; monitor closely.

• Geriatric Category:
Generally well-tolerated but monitor calcium levels to avoid hypercalcemia.

• Other Considerations:
Adjust dose cautiously in hepatic or renal impairment.

Conclusion:
Alfa-D 0.25Mcg Tab is an effective treatment for calcium deficiency-related conditions such as osteoporosis and rickets. When used as prescribed, it can improve calcium balance and bone health. Patients and caregivers should adhere to the prescribed dosage and monitor for side effects. Pharmacists should counsel patients on potential drug interactions and the importance of adherence to therapy.